Education System in Germany Explained: Ultimate Guide

This article will explore the German education system in depth, providing an overview of its levels and what to expect if you are living in Germany and have a child attending one. We’ll even explore the different secondary school options that Germany has, as well as the cost of education in this country.

Introduction to the German Education System

The German education system operates under the framework of the Basic Law, also known as the Grundgesetz. This fundamental law states that children between the ages of 6 and 15 are required to go to school, which is essential for their primary and secondary years of education. Germany has created five stages of education for all students:

• Early childhood education
• Primary education
• Secondary education
• Tertiary education
• Continuing education

Primary and secondary are required, but the others are optional. In primary and secondary education, students can expect to be in school only from 8 am to 1 pm rather than staying for long hours, as is the norm in other countries.The German grading system is also different, as students are generally graded not by letter but on a scale from 1 to 6, with 1 being the best and 6 being the worst. As you may already know, the German education system is affordable, if not free, in most cases. To better understand each stage of education, let’s discuss them individually, starting with early childhood education in Germany.

Early Childhood Education in Germany

Early childhood education in Germany is optimal, but it should be noted that many people still send their kids to these institutions. Kindergarten begins as young as 3 to 4 years of age, but education is not based on writing, reading, or even completing assignments. At this stage, the German education system solely focuses on supporting their socialisation and learning of basic skills, allowing them to become more acclimated to school life before they enter into their primary education or first grade.

Primary Education in Germany

Students in Germany are required to attend first grade or the start of their primary school years. For many students, this begins at age 6, after they have completed a few years of preschool or kindergarten with their peers. This is also the first grade where students start to learn English alongside other basics, like the alphabet and how to read and write.

Primary school, or Grundschule, only lasts from grades 1 to 4 unless you’re residing in Berlin or Brandenburg, where primary school is considered to be grades 1 to 6. The goal of this stage of education is to teach German students the skills that they need for their secondary education, preparing them to choose what to do with their careers, as well as what sort of path they want to take when the time comes, and they must choose their future jobs.

At the end of this stage of their education, the teachers will also guide parents on what secondary education is best, as there are several options for them to choose from that will decide if they pursue university or vocational school instead.

Secondary Education in Germany

Secondary education, or Sekundarchule, is the second stage of a child’s education in Germany, taking place between the ages of 10-15, depending on where one lives. Students begin to chart their path to their future careers at this stage.

Unlike in primary school, students at this stage will likely attend a school based on their performance and the recommendations of their past teachers. Students will have different school paths depending on where they live, but there are three main paths: Hauptschule, Realschule, or Gymnasium.

Exploring Germany’s Secondary Education Options

Hauptschule is the least demanding of the secondary school options. It prepares students for a trade or vocational school as part of their secondary level II education, known as Ausbildung. Students generally complete their vocational training and become certified in their chosen career path by completing their secondary school education.

Realschule is the second option for many German students for their secondary education as they complete grades 5 through 10. Students in this school have a more challenging education that is more based on a specific focus area. If they perform well, they can transfer to Gymnasium and pursue their education at the university level. However, others also choose to pursue a trade school.

Gymnasium is Germany’s most demanding secondary education option, and it occurs from grades 5 to 12. The ultimate goal of Gymnasium is to prepare kids to attend a university, guiding them through two secondary levels that are meant to develop their skills and refine their potential career options before applying to school. After completing Abitur, the big exam at the end of Gymnasium, this determines where they attend.

However, students can also opt to attend Gesamtschule, which combines all three paths into one comprehensive secondary school. These are not available everywhere and usually entail full-day coursework, but they can be an excellent option for those who want the flexibility of changing paths throughout their education.

Tertiary Education in Germany

Tertiary education in Germany generally refers to the universities, colleges, and vocational schools that are pursued after a student completes secondary education at any of the above options. Around the world, Germany’s tertiary education is widely noted as one of the most efficient and affordable, with several highly respected research institutions that draw students from around the globe. Germany’s Universität system is among the best!

Students can attend university after completing their studies at the Gymnasium or after taking the Abitur. A good score on the Abitur can ensure that students get into the university of their choice. By this stage, students are usually around 18 to 19 years old and have already completed nearly 15 years of education if they have attended kindergarten.

However, tertiary education is available to these students and those who have completed their education at Ausbildung and want to attend a university for applied sciences to further their expertise. The universities of applied sciences, also known as Fachhochschule, are at the tertiary level and can further enhance a student’s career.

Continuing Education in Germany

In addition to a university education, students in Germany can take advantage of continuing education opportunities. This entails pursuing further degrees at the master’s or doctoral level or even taking other courses that further enrich their life and allow them to cultivate new career skills.

There are many non-degree courses and opportunities for students, ensuring everyone has the chance to pursue topics they are interested in, even if it is just to satisfy their curiosities rather than secure a promotion.

Other Educational Institutions in Germany

While the German education system has five different stages, other institutions are also part of its structure. The above schools are mainly public in nature, but students can also attend private institutions at an additional cost.

If you have children from another country who are entering the German school system, you’ll be happy to know that there are several international schools to choose from. These are for students from abroad or those who want to become bilingual in both English and German. Other private institutions require an entrance exam and additional fees to attend. Some of these institutions are also boarding schools reserved for those who want an elite education for their children.

However, another aspect of the German education system is the existence of separate schools for students with learning disabilities. Although this has been a part of the system for many years, some have criticised it because it limits socialisation with other students.

What is the cost of the education system in Germany?

Fortunately, public institutions are free if your child attends classes through the German education system. However, it should be noted that private institutions come at an additional cost, often much more than people imagine. The price will depend on the institution, so it is essential to research this to find the best place for you or your student.

There are some costs associated with university education, but overall, tuition is usually free, and students only have to pay for their living costs, a low administration fee per semester, books, and other necessities during their studies.

What is the typical school year in the German education system?

The typical school year is split between two different terms in the education system in Germany. The first term begins in late August or early September and ends at the end of January, while the second term begins in February and ends in June or July. Most students in Germany will not enjoy a long summer break, but they will instead enjoy more time off throughout the year.

Additionally, many people will be happy to know that the German school system staggers their breaks across the regions. That means when school break arrives, you won’t have to fight for the best hotels or settle for your second choice for your vacation. You’ll enjoy less crowds and more extended breaks.